Paran Christian Ministries Cape Town
Paran Christian Ministries reaches out to refugees in Cape Town, led by Pastor Eugene Muganga. When refugees arrive in South Africa, life is extremely tough. They are not able to find employment, access bank loans or receive proper health care because of the stigma, status and lack of documentation of refugees. Some are forced to become involved in criminal activities, for example prostitution for women and young girls, just so they can survive.
Paran’s microfinance training and being part of a group empowers them to take a different path. In their microfinance group, they save and access loans so they can set up small businesses and earn a sustainable living. The microfinance system is an effective way to save and keep money safe because refugees can’t open a bank account.
“Thank you Lord for sending E3 to me. When we came to South Africa, I had no idea how to earn money as the breadwinner for my family. It was really difficult to survive.
“Now, I have paid off my motorbike and I own it outright. I no longer pay a weekly fee to anyone. I am able to pay for my accommodation and look after my wife and children.”
Bosco, one of the Paran riders for Uber Eats and a refugee from Burundi.
E3’s partnership:
Funds microfinance groups and loans for 40 needy refugee families. Their small businesses include street stalls, grocery shops, sewing, baking and even fixing boats! Some people study at university thanks to the money generated from their businesses. One of them became a qualified accountant and now runs the microfinance programme.
Supports 25 refugee children through Back to School.
Raises awareness about sexual and gender-based violence and cultural change through community workshops.
Grant from E3: £5,000.
Sustainability loan of £4,000 in 2021: Paran Cape Town bought five motorbikes to run an Uber Eats business to generate a sustainable income to help fund the ministry. Delivery riders have the opportunity to earn a living and eventually they are able to buy and own the motorbike.
Pastor Eugene Muganga
“I have been running this mini hardware business for two years now. I lost my job due to COVID-19 and had no way to provide for my three children. I used my microfinance loan to buy the start-up stock.”
